Indian Navy FT Stages Comeback to Secure Quarterfinal Spot in Durand Cup

Indian Navy FT Triumphs Over TRAU FC

Imphal (Manipur) [India], August 13: In a thrilling encounter at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, Indian Navy FT rallied from behind to defeat TRAU FC 2-1, securing their place in the quarterfinals of the 134th Durand Cup. Late goals from Pintu Mahata and Sreyas VG turned the tide in favor of the Navy team, as reported by the Durand Cup organizers.

TRAU FC initially took the lead in the 29th minute with a goal from Moirangthem Nelson Singh. However, Pintu Mahata equalized in the 87th minute, followed by Sreyas VG's decisive goal in the third minute of injury time, allowing the Navy to top Group F with seven points, just ahead of Real Kashmir FC, who concluded their campaign with six points.

TRAU's Head Coach, Thangjam Saran Singh, made a necessary adjustment by substituting Dhanachandra Mutum for the suspended Captain Shitaljit Atom, while Indian Navy FT's Coach Raman Rai maintained the same lineup for this crucial match.

The first half saw the Indian Navy displaying urgency and attacking intent. The forward trio of Vijay Marandi, Roshan Panna, and Sreyas VG worked effectively with midfielders Pintu Mahata and J Vijay, creating several opportunities against the TRAU defense, which countered effectively.

TRAU's goal came against the run of play when Jenish Singh delivered a long ball to Yumnam Monis Singh, who crossed it to Nelson Singh, who finished skillfully past Bhaskar Roy.

Despite the Navy's relentless pressure and numerous attempts, TRAU's defense held firm, blocking several shots. The Navy struggled with composure in front of goal, with J Vijay coming closest with a powerful shot that was saved by TRAU's goalkeeper, Sapam Nongpoknganba Singh.

Bhaskar Roy made a crucial save early in the second half, deflecting a header from Afridi Buyamayum. The Indian Navy continued to press, but the equalizer remained elusive.

Adarsh Matummal nearly scored with a remarkable free kick from 40 yards that struck the post, with the rebound saved acrobatically by the goalkeeper.

Finally, the Indian Navy broke through in the 87th minute when Pintu Mahata converted a brilliant pass from Sreyas VG, igniting a frantic finish.

In a dramatic conclusion, Sreyas VG scored again in injury time, connecting with C Pradeesh's cross to secure the victory and silence the home crowd.